Overview
Blepharitis is a common, long-term inflammation of the edges of the eyelids where the lashes grow. It makes the lids red, itchy and crusty, especially on waking, and gives a gritty, burning feeling in the eyes. It is not usually serious and does not damage sight, but it can be persistent and uncomfortable and can trigger styes. The mainstay of control is simple daily eyelid hygiene — warm compresses and gentle cleaning — kept up over the long term.
Symptoms
- Red, swollen or itchy eyelid margins
- Crusting or flaking along the lashes, worse on waking
- A gritty or burning feeling in the eyes
- Watery eyes and blurred vision that clears on blinking
- Recurrent styes or eye irritation
When to see a doctor
See an eye doctor if eyelid irritation persists despite lid hygiene, is very red or painful, or affects your vision.
Causes
Blocked oil glands at the lid margin, dandruff-type skin conditions, bacteria, and eyelash mites; often linked to dry eyes and rosacea.